The 49ers will be missing some of their top players for the NFC West opener at SoFi Stadium against the Rams: Christian McCaffrey (calf/Achilles tendon); Deebo Samuel (calf); George Kittle (thigh).
One former All-Pro does return to San Francisco’s lineup, however: safety Talanoa Hufanga, who tore his ACL last November and will play for the first time since then on Sunday. Nick Bosa and Charvarius Ward were also questionable this week but are active on Sunday.
The Rams are also without key players, with star wideouts Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua both out; Nacua is on the injured list with a knee injury sustained in Week 1, while Kupp is out with an ankle injury sustained last week. Los Angeles already has five offensive linemen on the injured list.
Given the injuries to pass receivers, both teams could present a heavy running attack in the divisional showdown. Jordan Mason has scored triple-digit yardage in each of the first two weeks, his first two career starts. Rookie Isaac Guerendo had his first run last week and could have a few more to fill in for Mason with part-time runner Samuel out. Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings will be Brock Purdy’s primary targets in the passing game.
The Rams have had problems on the ground: Kyren Williams has rushed for 75 yards on 30 carries in the first two games, making him the best player. Matt Stafford will rely on Tutu Atwell and Demarcus Robinson because Nacua and Kupp are injured.
Follow below for live updates:
